Question

In the 1980s, Bill Moyers interviewed the famous mythologist, Joseph Campbell, over a series of shows for PBS. Campbell mentioned this phrase for success: “Follow your Bliss.” Later, Campbell joked that one should “Follow their blisters.” The phrase became very popular.

As we study this chapter, answer this question: What is “bliss” to you? Is bliss successfully completing a task? Is it love, happiness or joy? Compare your understanding with the “bliss” of the Buddhist nirvana.

Answer 1

Bliss can be defined as that state of happiness which gives such a joy, which is out of this world. When we feel "blissful", it means that we are in a perfect state of joy and pleasure.

For me "bliss" simply means feeling calm, happy and satisfied. I feel "blissful" when I am able to carry out my course of the day the way I want. I feel "blissful" when I am able to help others in some or the other way. Completing my task before the deadlines also gives me that feeling of "bliss".

According to the Buddhism, Nirvana means to bring an end to the continuous cycle of birth and death and being liberated from all the sadness. In Buddhism, breaking free from the karmic cycle is the "bliss". Attaining the state of Nirvana is the ultimate "bliss." Comparing my understanding about bliss with that of Nirvana, bliss is more of a earthly based happiness whereas Nirvana is a spiritual state. The happiness and satisfaction that we gain through human-based actions is bliss whereas Nirvana is the attainment of enlightenment like Lord Buddha. The feelings of both "bliss" and "Nirvana" is on the similar lines but the former is a feeling whereas the latter is a state.